Sanwo-Olu unveils photographic chronicle of Lagos’ governance journey

By Adeola Ogunrinde

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Monday unveiled a photographic chronicle documenting his administration’s journey through some of the state’s most significant moments.

The publication titled “Sanwo-Olu: Against All Odds” was described as a visual account of resilience, leadership, continuity and the enduring spirit of Lagos.

The book, authored by the governor’s official photographer, Ademola Olaniran, captures key events from Sanwo-Olu’s first term and the early years of his second term. These include the COVID-19 pandemic, the EndSARS protests, infrastructure development, economic reforms and various social intervention programmes.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Sanwo-Olu said the publication was unique because it documented an administration while it was still in office. He noted that the real focus of the book was not himself but the people of Lagos, whose resilience and determination were reflected in its photographs.

The governor also recalled some of the major challenges faced by his administration, including the COVID-19 outbreak, the EndSARS protests, the Abule-Ado explosion and building collapses. Despite these setbacks, he highlighted achievements such as the completion of the Blue and Red Rail Lines, the commencement of operations at the Lekki Deep Sea Port and investments in housing, healthcare, education and food security.

Furthermore, Sanwo-Olu described continuity in governance as the foundation of Lagos’ development. He credited President Bola Tinubu and former governors Babatunde Fashola and Akinwunmi Ambode for laying the foundation on which his administration continues to build.

Earlier, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat said the unveiling was more than the presentation of a book. According to him, it was a celebration of leadership, resilience and the importance of preserving history through photography, which he described as a powerful tool for documenting both governance and human experiences.

In his remarks, Olaniran said Against All Odds was conceived as a visual record of leadership during extraordinary times. He expressed appreciation to Governor Sanwo-Olu, the first family, members of the State Executive Council and his colleagues for their support and cooperation throughout the project.